Today the Iowa House passed the first bill of the 2012 Legislative session, House File 2042, a bill that requires all administrative rules created by state agencies must be accompanied by a ‘Jobs Impact Statement’.

The bill codifies a requirement previously put in place by Governor Branstad via Executive Order 71. It requires that every proposed rule contain a jobs impact statement which sets out in detail the impact of the proposed rule on state agencies, local governments, the public and Iowa businesses. Additionally, it must determine whether a proposed rule would have a positive or negative impact on private sector jobs and employment.

“House Republicans are committed to creating policies that put Iowans back to work. During these difficult economic times, we must not let government rules create uncertainty for Iowa’s businesses,” said House Majority Leader Linda Upmeyer (R-Garner). “The best way to put Iowans back to work is to advance policies that create an environment that encourages employers to keep and create jobs right here in Iowa.”

The bill passed the House unanimously and is now sent to the Senate for their consideration.